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Shikharji Temple is the most significant Jain pilgrimage centre located on Parasnath Hill in the Giridih district of Jharkhand. Millions of followers from all over the world travel to this holy place to express their devotion. Shikharji, or “the peak of concentration,” is where twenty-four of the twenty-four Jain Tirthankaras, including Lord Parshvanatha, attained nirvana. Shikharji stands tall at the height of 1,350 metres. You can feel a spiritually as well as physically enriching journey when you trek through dense forests and hills to reach the temple.
Quick Details About Shikharji Temple
Location: Parasnath Hill, Giridih District, Jharkhand, India
Timings: 24*7
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Time Required For Trek: Typically 2 days, but a 1-day trek is also possible
Nearest Railway Station: Parasnath Railway Station (10 km away)
Nearest Airport: Ranchi Airport (190 km away)
About Shikharji Temple
Photo: Capankajsmilyo / Wikimedia Commons
The place is situated on the tall hill of the state of Jharkhand, known as Parasnath Hill, and the term Shikhar literally means “peak.” It is a peaceful location with small shrines and temples dedicated to various Tirthankaras, used by pilgrims as a medium for prayer and meditation purposes. You have to navigate rough terrains to reach the summit. Thick forests and wildlife within the serene atmosphere only add to the aura of the spiritual experience.
How To Reach
Photo: Salil Kumar Mukherjee / Wikimedia Commons
For booking a trip to Shikharji Temple, the transport options are listed below:
By Air: The nearest airport is Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi, 190 km from Shikharji. From here take a taxi or bus up to Madhuban, which is the base village for the trek.
By Train: The nearest station is the Parasnath Railway Station, which is 24 kilometres from Shikharji. It is well-connected to Delhi, Kolkata, and Patna. Buses and taxis are available from here.
By Road: Shikharji is well connected by road to all the important cities like Ranchi, Giridih, and Dhanbad by daily buses. Visitors can also hire private taxis for a comfortable journey to Madhuban.
Places To Visit Around Shikharji Temple
Explore the captivating sites surrounding the temple, from serene landscapes to rich cultural experiences.
1. Parasnath Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Md. Tareq Aziz Touhid / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Close to Parasnath Hill, the Parasnath Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. With an area of 50 square kilometres, the sanctuary is home to leopards, sloth bears, langurs, and a staggering variety of bird species. The forested area is quiet and serene, while tourists can go for nature walks, birdwatching and can even discover the local flora.
Things To Do: Wildlife watching, nature walks, photography
2. Usri Falls
Photo: Alangkrita / Wikimedia Commons
Usri Falls, 30 km from Shikharji, is a natural waterfall in Jharkhand with greenery surrounding it. Usri River, a tributary of the Barakar River, flows through a deep gorge. It is surrounded by dense forest. The water of the Usri River, which is 12 metres high, flows down and splits into three streams. Visitors can picnic and trek around here. To reach the spot from Shikharji Temple, you can take taxis, tongas, and auto-rickshaws.
Things To Do: Trekking, picnics, photography, exploring the surrounding forest.
3. Madhuban Village
Photo: Nizil Shah / Wikimedia Commons
The pilgrimage to Shikharji starts from Madhuban, a village at the foothills of Parasnath Hill. The village is dotted with numerous Jain temples and dharamshalas, and pilgrims usually stay here overnight. There is a museum displaying antiquities of Jain architecture and art in Madhuban. This village is a quiet place where pilgrims prepare themselves spiritually for the arduous trek.
Things To Do: Visit Jain temples, explore the Jain museum, enjoy traditional Jain cuisine
4. Giridih Town
Photo: Anup Sadi / Wikimedia Commons
Giridih Town, situated 40 km away from Parasnath Hill, is known for its beauty and historical significance. It used to be a part of Bihar. Now, it is a well-settled town in Jharkhand. Giridih Town rivers are a base for a number of tourists who are travelling to explore the natural beauty of this area. It also has coal mines, which are historically significant in this town.
Things To Do: Explore Giridih’s scenic landscapes, visit local temples, take a trip to nearby coal mines.
Where To Stay
Photo: Nizil Shah / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Budget friendly accommodations are available within Shikharji mainly in Madhuban Village. Basic, comfortable stays with amenities for pilgrims can be availed at the Jain dharamshalas. For expanded facilities, guest houses and hotels can be availed in towns such as Giridih. Some of the popular ones are Jain Bhawan Dharamshala, Hotel Hill View, and Hotel Parasnath International.
Where To Eat
Photo: kabir cheema / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Being a pilgrim centre for Jainism, there is only Jain food around Shikharji. Jain Bhojanalayas in Madhuban serve nutritious vegetarian meals excluding root vegetables. Vegetarian food at regional levels can be found in local towns like Giridih; a popular option is Hotel Bhawani Restaurant.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Wikilover90 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Here are some factors you need to take care of while visiting Shikharji Temple.
- Trek Preparations: Start the trek early in order to avoid the midday sun and carry enough water. Comfortable shoes and carrying a walking stick is also advisable.
- Weather: The time to visit is from October to March, as the weather is pleasantly cool in these months.
- Cultural Respect: Adhere to the beliefs of Jainism by dressing modestly and refraining from using leather-wear accessories.
Shikharji Temple is not just a destination but a pilgrimage for the sacred enlightenment in the midst of Jharkhand’s scenic beauty. Whether for pilgrimage or simply to enjoy the green richness of Parasnath Hills, this trip is something that will satisfy you from core to soul. Plan a visit with TripXL and ensure yourself a genuinely hassle-free journey that combines spiritual fulfilment with natural beauty at its best.
Cover Photo: Bodhisattwa / Wikimedia Commons
